Yong recalled Volcarona into the Pokémon Ball. Feeling its surface grow hotter, he put on his hood with a wry smile.
"Looks like I'll have to get this fellow a new Pokémon Ball! It'll have to be a custom-made heat-resistant one!"
Cynthia put on her hood as well and smiled at his words.
"You can commission one directly from the Devon Corporation! The Stone family offers custom Pokémon Balls!"
Yong smiled and nodded.
The three headed back the way they had come, moving much faster this time.
Qingcao walked alongside them, his eyes still holding a trace of amazement.
"Teacher Yong, Volcarona really is impressive and powerful!"
Yong patted his shoulder and smiled.
"What? Tempted?"
Qingcao shook his head sheepishly.
"No, I still prefer Rock-type Pokémon. Larvesta isn't right for me..."
Cynthia gave Qingcao an approving look. Few people could rein in their desires and stay true to their choices.
Yong and Cynthia exchanged a smile, each understanding what the other meant.
This child was indeed worth nurturing.
Retracing their route, the three soon left the Fiery Path.
After taking off his slightly wrinkled fireproof suit, Yong clicked his tongue at the mottled marks covering it.
"Looks like this place won't return to normal for a long time. Temperatures like these are completely unsuitable for novice Trainers..."
Cynthia gently smoothed her hair and nodded.
"Never mind humans-even Fire-type Pokémon wouldn't enjoy an environment that's nothing but extreme heat."
That was true. Aside from certain Fire-type Pokémon that fed on lava, even other Fire-type Pokémon rarely lived inside Mt. Chimney anymore.
"So? Shall we go catch a Mudkip for Qingcao next?"
After witnessing Larvesta's evolution, Cynthia seemed to be in an even better mood, and she asked with a smile.
Yong looked toward the distant mountains, then checked the sky.
"It's